My next project is for me and it’s going to be a nice tool chest/box for some of my hand tools. This will primarily be for chisels, planes, saws, marking and layout itrms, and my sharpening stones.

Just recently I read that white oak might not be the best choice with regards to rusting or leeching of material from the white oak and rusting?/damaging the exposed metal of tools.

Given that information, What other wood choices would be durable and maybe better suited? I’d prefer to use hardwoods for this project. Dovetails and tongue & grooves and some pins will be the joinery used.

Thank you for reading and any insight

Larry

2 replies so far

The tannins in oak will react with steel if there is moisture present. Generally it stains the wood. Oak may not be the best wood just from a weight standpoint. Most folks want their tool chests to be light as possible because the contents are going to be heavy. A concern if you plan on lugging it around. Generally they are made of pine or poplar.